Economy – India Highlights Decade of Welfare Expansion and Infrastructure Progress

Economy – Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Tuesday praised India’s progress over the past decade, highlighting major improvements in infrastructure, poverty reduction, healthcare, and welfare programs. His remarks came as the Narendra Modi-led government completed 12 years in office at the Centre.

Speaking about the country’s development journey, the Vice President said India’s achievements have drawn international attention and strengthened its position on the global stage. He expressed confidence that the country could eventually emerge as a guiding force for the world as it continues to expand its economic and social capabilities.

Focus on Welfare and Poverty Reduction

Radhakrishnan pointed to several welfare initiatives that he said had transformed the lives of millions of citizens across the country. According to him, nearly 25 crore people have moved out of extreme poverty during the last decade. He also mentioned that piped drinking water connections had reached around 12 crore households, improving living conditions in rural and urban areas alike.

Referring to the Swachh Bharat Mission, he stated that sanitation coverage and access to toilets had helped crores of citizens live with greater dignity and improved hygiene standards. He described the government’s welfare-oriented approach as an example of inclusive growth aimed at supporting vulnerable communities.

The Vice President also spoke about the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, under which eligible beneficiaries receive free food grains every month. He said the scheme has supported nearly 80 crore people and played an important role in ensuring food security.

Healthcare and Social Support Measures

Highlighting reforms in the healthcare sector, Radhakrishnan called the Ayushman Bharat programme a major milestone in expanding medical coverage. He noted that the initiative has provided health insurance benefits to more than 40 crore people, helping low-income families access treatment without facing heavy financial burdens.

He further said that welfare schemes introduced in recent years have strengthened support systems for women, students, farmers, and young people. According to him, these measures are contributing to long-term social and economic development.

Women’s Participation in Economic Growth

The Vice President also emphasized the growing contribution of women to India’s economy. He referred to the increasing number of women associated with self-employment and rural entrepreneurship initiatives, including those recognised as “Lakhpati Didis” and “Namo Drone Didis.”

Sharing his experiences from visits across different states, he said he had witnessed growing confidence and optimism among women participating in these programmes. He added that women’s empowerment would continue to play a major role in the country’s future growth story.

Infrastructure Expansion Across Remote Regions

Radhakrishnan praised the government’s focus on infrastructure development, particularly in border and remote areas. He described the Chenab Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir as a remarkable engineering achievement and highlighted the rapid construction of roads and highways in difficult terrains.

According to him, close monitoring of major projects through the PRAGATI platform has accelerated implementation and improved coordination between departments. He said these projects were helping improve connectivity and economic opportunities in previously underserved regions.

Security Measures and Long-Term Vision

The Vice President also commended the government’s strict stance against terrorism and insurgency. He said stronger security measures and anti-naxal operations had opened new opportunities for development in regions affected by violence for many years.

Quoting the ideas of Swami Vivekananda, he urged citizens to contribute actively toward the vision of a developed India. He reiterated the national goal of transforming the country into a leading global power by 2047, marking 100 years of independence.

Radhakrishnan said the present period represents an important phase of national growth and called on people to participate through dedication, innovation, and collective effort.